Heart Health: Exploring Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance in the body that is important for maintaining overall health and metabolic function. Cholesterol can be obtained by foods, but is primarily produced in the liver. Cholesterol is responsible for numerous processes in the body, as it is a part of our cell membranes, the building block for hormones, bile production, and vitamin D production, to name a few. Having healthy levels of cholesterol in the body is important for maintaining overall health and metabolic functions, however; an imbalance in cholesterol levels can have negative implications.

Cholesterol levels are measured in blood work, and the typical markers that are assessed are the following:

• Total Cholesterol

• Triglycerides

• LDL (low density lipoprotein)

• HDL (high density lipoprotein)

• Cholesterol/HDL ratio

• Non-HDL Cholesterol

Dyslipidemia, a term which describes an imbalance in cholesterol levels, is when there is an increased amount of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, and a decrease in HDL levels. This is important to acknowledge, as when this happens, there can be an increased risk for cardiovascular disease.

Contributing factors of Dyslipidemia

Most people are familiar with the concept of an unbalanced diet contributing to poor cholesterol levels, however; it is important to also consider other factors that may be impact your lipid panel.

1. Thyroid health

2. Insulin Resistance & Diabetes

3. Diabetes

4. Nutrition

5. Lifestyle

6. Stress

Methods to Support Healthy Cholesterol Levels

While health care is individualized, below are some ways that can help support healthy cholesterol levels.

Exercise

An inactive lifestyle can contribute to dyslipidemia, and fortunately, leading a more active lifestyle can help with improving cholesterol levels. Aim for a minimum of 150 minutes per week of exercise, as this can be helpful for reducing total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, while improving HDL levels.

Nutrition

Focusing on a whole foods diet can be helpful for improving cholesterol levels. The Mediterranean style diet is most well researched in terms of its benefits for cardiovascular health. A focus on foods that are high in fibre, such as fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, and lean sources of protein, with a reduction in processed and refined foods may be beneficial in improving cardiovascular health.

Smoking cessation

Smoking is a risk factor for dyslipidemia, and working on smoking cessation can be beneficial in improving HDL, LDL, and triglycerides.

Limit Alcohol

Alcohol consumption can lead to increased levels of LDL and triglycerides, thereby increasing risk of heart disease. Reducing/eliminating alcohol consumption benefits overall liver health, can be helpful for healthy weight management, and blood pressure control.

It is important to understand where you stand in terms of cardiovascular health, as preventative health methods and targeted treatment can be beneficial for reducing risk factors. If you would like to learn more about how to best support healthy cholesterol levels, please reach out to one of our Naturopathic Doctors to get an assessment and get started on your treatment plan.